All the research shows that it is never too early to transform a child's life chances. The school readiness gap between disadvantaged children and their peers can be as wide as 19 months on their first day of school and once children have fallen behind, their chances of catching up are slim.
This can put them at a disadvantage before schooling has begun and can limit their academic and employment prospects long into their future.
High-quality early years and childcare is vital. 4Children is calling on all political parties to commit to 25 hours a week of funded support for all oneto four-year-olds. The early years pupil premium could also help close the development gap, but the amount of money must be increased so it matches the amount that eligible school pupils receive. 4Children has made a call for evidence from the sector to share best practice and help maximise the impact of this funding.
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